My social worker told me about Barnardo's Young Women's Project. At first, I was sceptical. However, I soon found them extremely helpful to my happiness, confidence and well being. Finally, I had somebody to talk to about whatever I felt comfortable to talk about in relation to my experience with someone older which started over the internet. What made the sessions best is that they were held in an environment which was relaxed, somewhere I was used to and comfortable in. It gave me something to look forward to every week. Slowly but surely I am getting on my way towards having things more sorted in my mind and 'normalness'.

My family life was deteriorating and I ended up in care. However, my practitioner was still available to me as she could visit me in another borough just like she did before. It was nice to have something that was the same.

I know there is still a lot of work to do but already I feel happier, safer, more stable within myself and most importantly supported thanks to Barnardo's. I used to think my whole world revolved around the relationship and I forgot about everyone around me. It took a long time but I have now built up a network of people who are constantly helping and taking care of me. Before my work with Barnardo's I felt like professionals were judging and messing about with my life. However, after a few sessions with my practitioner I learned by myself to see a different perspective on my own life. I have a lot on my plate! My life has changed a lot and I am still trying to adapt to life in care. However, I know it won't be for too long and I'm going to try to build bridges with my family. Hopefully we can move on from the distress that the relationship caused us all.

*Photograph posed by models.